BE A HARD TARGET

Awareness includes being a hard target, someone a criminal will pass in favor of another "easier" target. These easy targets appear like someone who won't resist, can be easily led, and is not aware. Criminals are lazy and do not want a challenge. They are looking for an ambush, a victim.

To be a hard target, do the following:

• Behave confidently
• Be aware and alert
• Look at them
• Confront orally
• Resist

Behave Confidently

Walk with a purpose, quickly, as if you have a definite destination. Upright stature, not slouched. Keep your head up and look straight ahead, scanning. Your eyes are not looking down at the floor. Move briskly, not slowly and tentatively.

Be Aware and Alert

Look around your surroundings. Notice what is in the environment and people could be potential threats. Use the Color Codes of awareness as your guide.

Look at Them

See someone suspicious? Look at them square in the eye. No criminal wants a victim who can identify them in a lineup.

Confront Orally

If you are being approached, warn them orally so that they know you mean business and do not want them any closer. They do not want attention paid to them. Yell and scream if necessary.

Resist

Finally, resist if being attacked. Your chances of survival are good if you make it hard for the attacker to accomplish his goal. Remember, criminals are lazy and do not want a challenge.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Books Self-defense books covering the foundation of personal protection and security. Includes recommended books.
• Videos Self-defense DVDs and videos serve as excellent supplemental learning tools as you see self-defense techniques performed.
• Training Live self-defense training from qualified instructors allows more personalized training, technique correction, and practice with partners.
• Information Additional websites that provide self-defense and personal protection information.
• More Articles Read more general self-defense articles from our library.